Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Celebrations for the 33rd anniversary of our country’s independence took place in Yangi Uzbekistan Park.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev delivered a speech at the ceremony, congratulating the people on this great holiday.

"In these emotional moments, we all gain a deeper understanding of the enormous historical significance of our priceless asset—national independence. It is thanks to independence that our national statehood has been revived. Uzbekistan has entered a new historical era. Thanks to independence, we have taken a rightful place in the world community, and we are entitled to be proud of this," said the head of state.

It was noted that in every endeavor and achievement, the great power of independence is vividly manifested, opening up our homeland to the world, and the world to us.

According to the International Monetary Fund, the gross domestic product of Uzbekistan exceeded US$100 billion for the first time in 2023. The World Bank forecasts GDP growth of 5.3 percent for the country this year.

All reforms are deeply infused with the noble idea of "For the sake of the interests and dignity of the individual, for the happiness of the people!" Economic successes have allowed for an increase in pensions and benefits starting in September this year and for salary raises for employees of budgetary organizations, medical workers, and teachers starting in October.

Systematic work is yielding results in all areas. The youth contribute significantly to the development of our country, as evidenced by the impressive successes of our compatriots at the 33rd Summer Olympics in Paris. During these days, joyful news from the Paralympic Games continues to arrive.

The President once again congratulated the athletes and expressed confidence that they would achieve even greater heights.

The importance of peace was emphasized during these challenging and turbulent times.

"No matter how difficult life may be, we will continue democratic reforms consistently, mobilizing all our strengths and opportunities for the good of the people, for the sake of strengthening peace and stability in the country. However, preserving peace should not remain solely the responsibility of the military. This is a sacred duty for all of us, for every citizen of Uzbekistan. Our main value is peace and stability. The strength of our country lies in the unity of its people," Shavkat Mirziyoyev stressed.

The speech highlighted efforts to develop the social sector and establish a quality education system. It was emphasized that the future of our country and the realization of all our noble aspirations depend on the knowledge and potential of the youth.

In the economy, equal rights will be ensured for all, and our country will become an integral part of the international trading space. We will rely on entrepreneurs to provide decent jobs for the population.

Currently, Uzbekistan is among the world’s 40 largest countries by population. It was noted that through our reforms, labor, knowledge, and talent, we must transform this figure into a powerful potential.

"Considering our limited access to the sea, we need to pay more attention to creative sectors and develop them consistently. There are many countries in the world that earn billions of dollars annually from exporting creative industrial products. Therefore, we will comprehensively encourage entrepreneur-inventors, especially young people who have organized the production of such products," said the President.

Development does not happen by itself; it is achieved through diligence, activity, and unity. Concluding his speech, Shavkat Mirziyoyev called on society to live by these ideals.

"Our fast-paced times require us to set ever-higher goals. Today, our main task is to ensure that the independent state and free society, which we have created with our own strengths and potential, become even more beautiful and well-equipped. This is a high goal, worthy of tireless effort. It is a bright, glorious goal worth dedicating one’s life to," the head of state said.

A festive concert program followed. The songs vividly reflected the rich art and values of our people, and interethnic harmony was showcased in the performances of folk ensembles. The concert was broadcast live on television and the internet, bringing festive cheer to our compatriots.